WCO Aids Cte Divoire in Customs Reform

WCO Aids Cte Divoire in Customs Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is assisting the Ivorian General Directorate of Customs (DGD) in enhancing its customs valuation and commodity classification capabilities. An expert team conducted a diagnostic assessment in Côte d'Ivoire, engaging with customs officials and the private sector to propose improvements. Recommendations include strengthening personnel training, refining regulations, upgrading IT infrastructure, and fostering international cooperation. The aim is to establish an efficient and transparent customs management system, promoting economic development and trade facilitation in Côte d'Ivoire.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Lesotho Revenue Authority Adopts Competencybased HR Reform

Lesotho Revenue Authority Adopts Competencybased HR Reform

The Lesotho Revenue Authority (LRA), with support from the World Customs Organization, is actively modernizing its GRH system based on competency models. Through the establishment of working groups, development of competency models, and participation in customized training programs, the LRA aims to improve employee quality, enhance organizational effectiveness, and strengthen organizational competitiveness. This experience provides valuable lessons for other tax authorities. The transformation focuses on building a skilled and efficient workforce to effectively manage tax administration and contribute to national development.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Bosnia Boosts Ecommerce with Wcobacked Customs Reform

Bosnia Boosts Ecommerce with Wcobacked Customs Reform

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop in Bosnia and Herzegovina focusing on cross-border e-commerce. The aim was to enhance the awareness of Bosnian Customs regarding e-commerce and to optimize clearance procedures. The workshop highlighted WCO's Framework of Standards on Cross-Border E-Commerce and the Immediate Release Guidelines. These tools are designed to help Bosnia and Herzegovina seize the opportunities presented by cross-border e-commerce, address related challenges, and ultimately achieve economic development.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Russian Ecommerce Tax Reform Challenges Chinese Sellers

Russian Ecommerce Tax Reform Challenges Chinese Sellers

Russia's cross-border e-commerce tax reform will be gradually implemented from 2027, abolishing tax exemptions for low-value parcels, which will impact Chinese sellers. The new regulations will force business model iterations and promote the market towards standardization and branding. Chinese sellers need to strengthen brand building, localization operations, and compliance capabilities to gain a competitive advantage in the post-tax-exemption era. This includes adapting to the new tax environment and focusing on providing value beyond just low prices to attract and retain Russian consumers.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Railroads Face Growing Antitrust Lawsuit from Freight Customers

Railroads Face Growing Antitrust Lawsuit from Freight Customers

Four major US railroad companies are accused of conspiring to manipulate fuel surcharges, harming freight customers. A court has certified a class action lawsuit, offering hope for victims. The case focuses on the "relentless rate increases" between 2003 and 2008. This litigation could prompt increased scrutiny from regulators, potentially impacting the rail freight industry and the broader business environment. The outcome may lead to changes in pricing practices and increased oversight of railroad companies.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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US Urges Railroads to Accelerate PTC Safety Upgrades

US Urges Railroads to Accelerate PTC Safety Upgrades

U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao urged railroad companies to accelerate the implementation of Positive Train Control (PTC) systems to meet the congressional deadline of the end of 2018. The implementation progress has been closely watched since the original deadline was missed. PTC aims to prevent train accidents and improve rail safety, but railroad companies consider it an 'unfunded mandate' with questionable cost-effectiveness. FRA data indicates that PTC implementation still needs improvement across various metrics.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Supreme Court Backs Ruling BNSF Must Pay Millions in Shipping Rate Dispute

Supreme Court Backs Ruling BNSF Must Pay Millions in Shipping Rate Dispute

The U.S. Supreme Court upheld a ruling ordering BNSF Railway to pay $345 million in damages and freight rate reductions to two power companies. The power companies challenged BNSF's coal transportation charges, arguing they were excessively high. This decision could impact railroad freight rate pricing mechanisms and spark further discussion regarding the regulation of the railroad industry. The ruling reinforces the principle that railroads must justify their rates and potentially opens the door for similar challenges from other shippers.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Strike Avoided As Talks Extended to December

US Rail Strike Avoided As Talks Extended to December

A potential US railroad strike has been temporarily averted as negotiations extend to December. The central dispute revolves around paid sick leave, with railroad companies maintaining a firm stance. Unions are seeking a united front, awaiting crucial voting results. Congressional intervention remains a possibility, but ongoing negotiations continue. While the immediate threat of a strike has subsided, the potential economic repercussions should not be underestimated. The core issue of paid sick leave remains unresolved, leaving the possibility of future disruptions on the table.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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Union Pacific Norfolk Southern Merger Could Reshape US Rail Industry

Union Pacific Norfolk Southern Merger Could Reshape US Rail Industry

Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern are planning a merger to create the first coast-to-coast transcontinental railroad in the United States. However, the merger faces strong opposition from competitors and concerns from labor unions. The STB will conduct a rigorous evaluation to weigh the potential benefits and risks of the merger. The final decision will have a profound impact on the US railroad industry and supply chain. The STB's assessment will focus on the competitive landscape and potential disruptions to freight logistics.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Rail Strike Threatens As Sick Leave Talks Stall

US Rail Strike Threatens As Sick Leave Talks Stall

US railroad workers and companies are deadlocked again over paid sick leave, with the signal workers' union rejecting a contract, raising the risk of a strike. Unions are fighting for basic rights, while railroad companies are considering cost control. A strike would disrupt supply chains, causing economic losses and social unrest. All parties are working to find a solution, and the Biden administration faces a test. The core issue remains the demand for paid sick leave, a crucial point of contention in the ongoing labor dispute.

01/16/2026 Logistics
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